friluftsliv: Friluftsfrämjandet

More långfärd on the sea!

Last weekend I went on a skate tour with the group Friluftsfrämjandet. We skated past small fishing villages, saw a seal swimming in the open water, and explored endless coves and bays. It was more 'dream come true.'

Friluftsfrämjandetis a leading outdoor recreation organization in Sweden, promoting friluftsliv for all ages in a nature and activity based approach. It is interesting to note that while activity is the focus point of this organization, the organizational ideas indicate just how these activities are connected with a strong philosophy:

(in translation) Our longing to be out in nature grows ever stronger, there are deep roots in us as a part of our culture and our legacy. Nature is a recovery place that gives us balance in our often stress-filled and sedentary lives (Friluftsfrämjandet, n. d.).

As early as 1957 the organization became actively involved in outdoor and environmental education with the arrival of ’Skogsmulle’. Skogsmulle is a mythical forest being, a character developed to lead children and families on outdoor adventures based on curiosity and love of nature. Friluftsfrämjandet in contemporary Sweden continues to play a strong role in environmental and outdoor education. For example, beyond Skogsmulle, there are a number of programs offered by the group including an outdoor approach to preschool, “Ur och Skur.” The description of Ur och Skur includes the following: (in translation)

Ur and Skur is a unique way to approach school and the preschool environment. The children are outside almost the entire school time. The pedagogy builds on happy awareness and curiosity and teaches children to see the connection in nature. The program is also built on promoting the use of all of the child’s senses. Ur and Skur is based on experience based teaching and friluftsliv to reach the intended outcomes. (Friluftsfämjandet, n.d.)

A great example of the 'community' aspect of this organization is my friend Maggan...not only does she help out with Skogsmulle, but she has become a volunteer ski instructor for beginning skiers...it seems to be much about individuals sharing their love of nature and active, outdoor pursuits with others.